Dementia Care Services
What dementia care do we offer?
Each of our four locations admits residents with dementia care requirements, from advanced, complex forms to early-stage. Where possible, we mix our residents with those without dementia, but more complex cases will need to be accommodated in our dedicated dementia suites.
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia. It involves the decline of brain function, affecting memory, thinking, and communication. It is not a natural part of ageing but a physical disease that impacts daily life and cognitive abilities.
Common types of dementia we care for include:
Alzheimer’s Disease: Supporting residents through gradual memory loss and cognitive decline with structured routines and reminiscence therapy.
Vascular Dementia: Managing the “stepped” changes in ability that follow cardiovascular issues or minor strokes.
Mixed Dementia: Providing tailored care for those experiencing symptoms of more than one type of dementia simultaneously (often Alzheimer’s combined with vascular changes).
Early-Onset and Advanced Dementia: Offering specialized environments that cater to varying levels of independence and clinical dependency.
Our advice
Deciding when a loved one should move into a nursing home is a deeply personal and often challenging decision. Our managers have a wealth of experience in knowing when it is the right time to consider such a move and are happy to advise, but of course, much depends on individual circumstances. There is no definitive “right” time but what they will all say is that planning is essential, and leaving it too late can result in problems. Here are four early indicators that you should start to plan for a transition.
Safety and Wandering. If a loved one begins to experience “sundowning” (increased confusion in the evening) or starts wandering and getting lost, the risk of injury or exposure becomes significant in a typical home environment. Professional dementia care units offer secure, keypad-protected spaces that allow for safe movement.
Caregiver Burnout. The caregiver’s health is just as crucial as the resident’s. If you are experiencing chronic exhaustion, social isolation, or physical strain, consider a transition. Moving a loved one into a care home is not “giving up”- it is a clinical decision aimed at ensuring they receive 24/7 support from a professional team and live well.
Increasing Medical Needs. As dementia progresses, it often leads to physical complications such as mobility issues, difficulty swallowing, or incontinence. When a person requires complex nursing care—such as wound management, physiotherapy, or catheter care—the specialised equipment and the continuous presence of registered nurses in a care home become essential.
Social Isolation and Behavioural Changes. Dementia can result in aggressive outbursts or deep depression. A specialised care home utilises “meaningful moments” and group activities to combat isolation. In our homes, we employ consistent, non-agency staff to create the deep trust necessary to manage these behavioural changes safely and compassionately.
How do residents with dementia live well?
Working with Families to Improve the Overall Harbour Care Centre Experience
Lornebank’s Dementia Care Approach: Fun & Games
Residents Enjoy Swimming Activities at our Portishead Care Home
Puppet Activities for our Dundee Care Home
Gone Fishing!